BCE Blog: Learning new tricks
By Paula Scott, BCE Executive Director
Wow, what a difference a month makes. Much of what the BCE had planned for March went by the wayside. With non-essential business being conducted from home, we’re all learning to adjust.
I’ll be leading my first Zoom video meeting this week and have taken to paying with my smart phone when I can. This old girl is learning new tricks!
Business Resources
The amount of information--and misinformation--coming at us can be overwhelming. Stick with authoritative sources and be skeptical about offers and suggestions that aren’t backed up by references.
A pretty good one-stop shop is the Ohio Chamber of Commerce website (https://ohiochamber.com) which includes information about the following topics and more.
Unemployment Compensation System Expansion
Small Business Administration (SBA) Loans
Tax Payment Deadline Extension
Ohio Department of Health Employee Screening Guidelines
Local Business Updates
For local information on business status, visit the Bluffton Icon-Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce “Bluffton Area Business Status & Support” report. This list is sorted by type and includes details such as hours of operation, phone numbers, delivery and online ordering, video activities, etc. You can send area business information to [email protected].
Business Plan Competition
Our 2020 business plan contestants recently practiced their presentations with Ryan DeMarco, a local Edward Jones financial advisor, and Melinda Bowden, owner of PromoHits! In Bluffton. By the following week, we had to adapt and ask for their final presentations on video. Bravo to all of our contestants on tackling this new requirement with just a few extra days to do it.
Our final judges are reviewing the revised written plans and presentations of the nine remaining businesses in the competition. Stay tuned for our award announcements.
Virtual Brown Bags and Coffee Hours
So how can we carry on with our programs from home? I can chat with individuals and groups by phone, Google Hangouts, Facetime, Go To Meeting, or Zoom. So pick up your cup of coffee and give me a ring!
Let me know if you have questions or ideas that you’d like to bounce off the BCE. You can reach the BCE at [email protected] or 567-525-6667. Please leave a message and I’ll return your call.
Helping grow a great community! BlufftonEntrepreneurs.com.
Stories Posted This Week
Monday, March 31, 2025
Sunday, March 30, 2025
Saturday, March 29, 2025
- Bluffton Public Library’s April 2025 programs and services
- Joseph “Joe” Ropp Davies worked for University of Findlay
- Hillville Road bridge maintenance on April 1
- Lift access added to Bluffton Senior Center back entrance
- Register for fear of falling workshop
- Florence to explain advanced sports stats at student forum